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Nome Today
By the People, for the People
Norwegian Businessman Completes Iditarod's New Expedition Class
Kjell Inge Røkke sets record time in non-competitive category
Mar. 16, 2026 at 10:59pm
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Norwegian businessman Kjell Inge Røkke, 67, has become the first finisher in the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race's new Expedition Class, reaching Nome on Alaska's west coast. He completed the over 1,500 kilometer journey in just under eight days, setting a record time in the non-competitive category.
Why it matters
The introduction of the Expedition Class reflects the Iditarod Trail Committee's efforts to address financial challenges, as costs have risen and sponsorships have declined. Røkke's participation comes with financial contributions to the race, including at least $300,000 this year to lower musher entry fees and boost the race purse.
The details
Røkke participated in the non-competitive Expedition Class, introduced for the 2026 race. While not vying for the top spot, he secured the fastest time within the class. He was the first to finish in this new category. The Expedition Class allows 'distinguished individuals from around the world' to participate in the Iditarod while supporting the race through a pledged donation. Participants are not eligible for prize money or awards, but must adhere to strict dog care standards.
- Røkke reached Nome on Alaska's west coast on Monday evening.
- Røkke's teammate, Thomas Wærner, was forced to withdraw from the race on Sunday due to illness within his dog team.
The players
Kjell Inge Røkke
A Norwegian businessman and philanthropist who has longstanding ties to Alaska, having worked on a trawler near the state in 1982 and building a leading global fisheries company.
Thomas Wærner
An experienced musher who collaborated with Røkke in preparation for the Iditarod.
Rob Urbach
The Iditarod director who congratulated Røkke on his historic achievement.
Hanna Lyrek
A musher from Alta who was in 11th place as of a checkpoint in Unalakleet in the competitive race.
Dallas Seavey
The current holder of the Iditarod record, with a time of 7 days, 14 hours, 8 minutes, and 57 seconds, set in 2021.
What they’re saying
“Kjell Inge Røkke has made history as the first Expedition musher to complete the Iditarod Trail to Nome. We congratulate him on an impressive achievement.”
— Rob Urbach, Iditarod director
“I had a lot of respect for the mushers from before. Now I have a heck of a lot more respect. A ton more, actually.”
— Kjell Inge Røkke
What’s next
The current Iditarod record is held by Dallas Seavey, with a time of 7 days, 14 hours, 8 minutes, and 57 seconds, set in 2021. The competitive race continues, with Hanna Lyrek of Alta in 11th place as of a checkpoint in Unalakleet.
The takeaway
The introduction of the Expedition Class reflects the Iditarod Trail Committee's efforts to address financial challenges, as costs have risen and sponsorships have declined. Røkke's participation, which includes significant financial contributions to the race, demonstrates how this new category can help sustain the iconic Iditarod event.
